Reforms and Ways Forward for Responsible Governance, Decentralization, and Equitable Development

Abstract

This concluding chapter summarizes the successes and limitations of the decentralization experience of Metro Manila from all the chapters. These were examined in the following aspects: social services delivery; urban development; and financing local governance. The chapter posits that perennial issues continue to haunt decentralization efforts. These include ineffective and inefficient social service delivery and urban development, inadequate funds, the lack of institutional capacity, and the need to further institutionalize popular participation. Proposals to address these include strengthening the institutional framework for responsible governance, development of indicators for more effective social services delivery, and an equitable and environment-friendly urban development through strengthening and tightening of the links between local government units, the national government, and other stakeholders. For this, applicable national and comparative mechanisms which enhance decentralization should also be tapped, including possible metropolitan and other governance arrangements. Crucial in all of these is addressing equity and popular participation through decentralization.